1965 Trabant Universal vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1965 Trabant Universal is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,131 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle (24 HP @ 3300 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1965 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1965 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 100 kg more than 1965 Trabant Universal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle (77 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm). This means 1961 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Trabant Universal | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Trabant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Universal | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 595 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 51 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2410 mm |
